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What is ironic about the speaker's comparison in lines 1-8 of the poem? English 4

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The irony within these lines lies in the apparent contrast between the rose and the snow.

How to explain

The rose, often associated with passion and beauty, is fragile and transient, its petals wilting and fading with time. In contrast, the snow, seemingly eternal in its pristine whiteness, portrays a sense of endurance and permanence.

However, the irony emerges as the rose, despite its fragility and transient nature, captures attention with its vivid beauty, while the snow, though seemingly unchanging, eventually melts away, losing its cold permanence as time passes. Thus, what appears eternal might fade, and what seems fragile might leave a lasting impact, revealing the paradox and unpredictability of life.

The sample poem juxtaposes these elements to illustrate the irony in the comparison, emphasizing the deeper truth that lies beyond their apparent differences.

The Complete Question

In a garden where shadows dance with light,

A tale of contrasts unfolds its might,

The rose, adorned in crimson attire,

Vies with the snow, pristine and entire.

The rose, a symbol of passion's fire,

Yet fragile, its petals, tend to expire.

While snow, in its cold, serene embrace,

Seems eternal, in a frozen space.

The irony within this blooming scene,

As the rose withers, its beauty keen,

While the snow, unchanging, seems to last,

But its chilliness fades as time runs fast.

Yet, in their differences, a truth is found,

For beauty and endurance, each holds its ground.

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